Pityriasis Amiantacea

What is Pityriasis Amiantacea?

Pityriasis amiantacea is a scalp condition that causes scaling, and can occur in patches anywhere on your scalp. It is relatively rare, and most commonly affects women between the ages of 25 and 50. Pityriasis amiantacea is more common in those who have psoriasis, eczema, seborrhoeic dermatitis and lichen simplex.

Pityriasis amiantacea is initially characterised by the formation of tight scales on the scalp. Eventually, these scales overlap, clinging together to cause a build up that results in hard patches with matted hair at the root.

Does Pityriasis Amiantacea Cause Hair Loss?

Pityriasis amiantacea often causes temporary alopecia (hair loss) during treatment, when the scaly crust is removed from the encased hairs. However, this loss is almost always reversible, with all hairs growing back.

Treatment for Pityriasis Amiantacea

While extremely bothersome and stressful, pityriasis amiantacea is not difficult to treat. Our expert Trichologists have a great deal of success in clearing it from the scalp. The initial stage of treatment is to remove the scales so that topical medications can be applied and penetrate the scalp effectively. Creams containing tar and salicylic acid can be very effective.

For more information on our treatment of pityriasis amiantacea, please contact the Philip Kingsley Trichological Clinic in London or New York.